There is no doubt that our society is obsessed with perfection. The media inundates us with unrealistic standards of beauty, and the constant barrage of photoshopped images can have harmful effects on both women and men. Eating disorders are the most common and deadly consequence of these impossible standards, but dentists and mental health specialists are becoming aware of another growing problem. Bleachorexia, or the addiction to teeth whitening, can seriously affect your dental health. When performed by your cosmetic dentist in Milford, teeth whiteningis quite safe. However, you should always choose professional treatment, and you should also remember that while perfection is impossible, a stunning, healthy smile is certainly a reality.
What Is Bleachorexia?
Patients who are addicted to teeth whitening suffer from a condition called “dental dysmorphia.” When they look in the mirror, they see someone with dingy, discolored teeth even though they may have a beautiful smile. To meet their own unrealistic standards, they continually bleach their teeth. Though some patients may use dentist-provided whitening treatments, others purchase do-it-yourself kits. In fact, the growing popularity of these kits has enabled more dental patients to indulge their unhealthy obsession; when their dentist tells them that further whitening treatment would harm their teeth, they simply go out and purchase their own kits.
The Consequences of Bleachorexia
The main ingredient in whitening gel is hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. When used under the direct supervision of a dentist, this gel has few side effects. However, when dental patients use such products obsessively and without supervision, the chemicals can wear away the enamel on their teeth and damage their gum tissue. Many patients who are addicted to whitening suffer extreme gum sensitivity, and their gums may also start to recede. Additionally, over time they will begin to strip the enamel from their teeth. With less enamel, their teeth are at a much higher risk for decay and cavities. Ironically, their teeth will also start to look severely discolored as the white enamel wears away, revealing the underlying layer of dentin.
Safe Teeth Whitening Treatment
Whitening is still an excellent option to achieve a more stunning smile, but patients should exercise caution and moderation when pursuing this treatment. For best results and optimal safety, you should always choose dentist-supervised treatment. At Sensitive Care Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we offer both in-office and at-home treatment. Both are quite safe and the customized treatment will protect your dental enamel and sensitive gum tissue. You should also be judicious about whitening touch-ups. In general, dentists recommend follow up treatments approximately every six months. Again, you should use touch-up treatments under the supervision of your dentist. By following safe whitening practices, you can achieve a gorgeous, white smile. While it may not be snow white like the (photoshopped) images in celebrity magazines, it will be beautiful and healthy.
To learn more about teeth whitening treatment or to book your appointment, call Sensitive Care Cosmetic & Family Dentistry at 203-878-6699. We are proud to serve patients in Milford and the surrounding areas.